Mask casting advice

[plammis]

I need some input on how to approach casting this, the end goal being a latex mask. I thought I had a handle on the basic steps, but as I'm working on this monster clay sculpt I'm noticing that the two big overhanging bits on top are going to be a headache to cast. My original thought was to go with plaster, and I've done some smaller test sculpts/molds. I don't see how this casts without doing 3+ pieces, which I'm willing to do but seems like a very finicky thing given my experience. I was thinking it might be better to pivot to a silicone mold once I'm at the casting stage? I know silicone and latex do not mix, but I could at least use a silicone mold to make copies of the sculpt to experiment with without having to restart from scratch. Any resources or tips would be greatly appreciated.

 

[udog]

Yes, it looks like a one piece mold will be difficult. Not only for filling with latex but also taking out the clay will be hard.
Have you considered cutting the "tubes" off, molding them separate, and then fix all the parts together once casted?. Could be an option.

 

[plammis]

Yes, it looks like a one piece mold will be difficult. Not only for filling with latex but also taking out the clay will be hard.
Have you considered cutting the "tubes" off, molding them separate, and then fix all the parts together once casted?. Could be an option.

I had not considered that, but that is a good idea. If I'm picturing everything correctly, it seems like I would end up with a lot of easily hidden seams. My first thought is to cut holes in the main head, and guide all the parts through them to I could seal/glue them from the inside.

 

[udog]

My first thought is to cut holes in the main head, and guide all the parts through them to I could seal/glue them from the inside.

That sounds good.